Checkpapuanow.com – Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka is scheduled to visit South Papua Province from September 16 to 17, 2025, as part of his official working agenda. The visit is expected to focus on reviewing the implementation of national programs that have been rolled out in the region.
South Papua Governor Apolo Safanpo confirmed the plan in Jayapura on Monday, September 15. He explained that the provincial government, together with the Presidential advance team and the Presidential Security Forces (Paspampres), had conducted a coordination meeting to finalize details of the upcoming visit.
“The meeting was held to ensure that the Vice President’s visit proceeds smoothly and safely,” the governor stated.
Gibran’s trip to South Papua will primarily highlight the progress of national initiatives such as the Free Nutritious Meal (Makan Bergizi Gratis/MBG) program and free health checks for residents. Both programs are part of broader government efforts to improve community welfare, particularly in remote and developing regions.
Before heading to Merauke in South Papua and Jayapura, Gibran is scheduled to make a brief stop in Papua New Guinea (PNG). This international leg of the journey underscores the government’s commitment to strengthening regional ties while balancing domestic responsibilities.
During his stay in Jayapura, the Vice President is also expected to visit a community school, reflecting the administration’s focus on education and grassroots development. The planned school visit will allow him to engage directly with students and educators, providing firsthand insight into local educational needs.
In Merauke, local leaders are preparing to welcome the Vice President and emphasize the importance of central government support. Merauke Regent Yoseph Gebze expressed hope that the visit will bring more attention to regional development challenges while reinforcing the national government’s commitment to equitable progress.
“We will continue to support the success of programs such as MBG so they can be implemented effectively,” the regent remarked.
Observers note that the Vice President’s visit to South Papua carries both symbolic and practical value. Symbolically, it demonstrates the government’s recognition of Papua’s strategic role within Indonesia. Practically, it serves as a platform to evaluate how national programs are being executed in the region and to identify areas that require improvement.
The visit is also seen as part of Gibran’s broader responsibility in monitoring key national initiatives outside of Jakarta. By traveling directly to the provinces, he can oversee progress, address obstacles, and ensure that government policies are aligned with local realities.
With ongoing challenges in education, health, and infrastructure across Papua, the Vice President’s presence is anticipated to encourage local administrations and communities to strengthen cooperation in advancing shared goals. The outcomes of this working visit are expected to contribute to shaping future policies aimed at reducing disparities between Indonesia’s eastern and western regions.
